Guyana’s National High Jump record-holder, Robert Bynoe, at the weekend donated 13 pairs of running shoes to three clubs affiliated to the Athletics Association of Guyana.
Bynoe’s record of 2.17m, which was set in April 1995, still stands as both the junior and senior outdoor record for Guyana.
The former collegiate athlete, who now resides in Huston, Texas, where he works as an Accountant in the Oil and Gas field, said the benevolence was him repaying the gratitude he received in his early days.
“As a young man, not coming from the wealthiest of families, I was fortunate to have my talent recognised and fostered by some very generous people that helped me along my journey. Without them, the man you see here today may not have existed,” he told reporters.
He added, “I fully understand the needs of our local athletes and I know first-hand what education and opportunity can bring. I stand here today having benefited from the Amateur Athletics Association network, the organisation’s resourcefulness, diligent coaches and a lot of improvising on my part due to the lack of facilities.”
The 44-year-old Bynoe noted it was pleasing to see the improvement in athletes being able to access resources as compared to his era.
“Happy to see that we’re turning the corner in a different era and the athletes have a lot more going for themselves and support today.”
AAG President Aubrey Hutson welcomed the donation and explained it was great to see former athletes giving back and hope more would follow suit.
“We’re very honoured to know that we have in our presence, still the record-holder at high jump. What we’re looking for in this sport are people that our athletes can reach out to and see these people whom we have as our record-holder.”
The donation of the quality shoes went to Super Upcoming Runners Track Club, Titans United Athletic Club and Running Brave Athletic Club.
Bynoe is a former student of the St. Rose’s High School; he subsequently attended the Savannah State University in the United States.
